Texas-Sized Holiday Tradition “Ice Rodeo” Returns to Four Seasons Hotel Austin

The holiday merrymaking and frosty fun commences this November at Four Seasons Hotel Austin with the highly anticipated return of the Hotel’s immersive experience, Ice Rodeo.

Beginning November 18, 2023, through January 7, 2024, guests and locals can saddle up for the festive season as the Hotel is transformed into a winter wonderland with Texas-sized delights for all ages.

Ice Skating and Festive Food Trucks

The shining bulb on this Hotel’s holiday tree is the 3,360 square foot (312 square metre) outdoor ice-skating rink. Skaters can glide beneath the Texas sky on the shores of Lady Bird Lake on a rink - built atop the Hotel pool - composed of real ice that is cooled by state-of-the-art chillers.

After skating, guests can warm up with hot toddies and holiday market-style eats from adjacent food trucks at The Point. This outdoor lounge - adorned with festive décor and cozy seating - is the perfect refuge to relish in the holiday cheer and roast s’mores on communal fire pits.

The rink is open daily with varying hours throughout the holiday season. The full schedule can be found online. Tickets can be purchased on the Ice Rodeo website and include a one-hour skating session and access to the Ice Rodeo festivities.

Rink Side Cabins

Those looking for an air of intimacy can rent rinkside cabins - fit for up to 6 guests - to delight in the icy experience from the lodge-chic retreats decked with a variety of luxurious amenities. Available daily, the cabins provide a uniquely festive atmosphere for holiday get-togethers with friends, family, or a romantic evening for two. Cabins start at USD 350 per two-hour rental, with special food and drink add-ons available including Champagne, specialty cocktails, shareable small plates, and tableside s’mores.

Holiday Décor

It is easy to marvel in the magic as holiday delights are on full display across the entire property. After an arrival beneath a blanket of thousands of twinkling lights and then gallivanting through a 120-foot (37 metre) tunnel of lighted stars, guest can spot elaborate Texas-themed art installations that have been cleverly tucked across property for the perfect photo-op. Of course, no visit is complete without a twirl beside the 30-foot (9 metre) Christmas Tree located on the back lawn.

Gingerbread Display

The décor turns delicious as guests head indoors for a peek at the Hotel’s famous gingerbread Lobby display created by Executive Pastry Chef Amanda Pallagi-Naim and team. Displays of years past have included replicas of the city and a life-sized Airstream trailer. This year, the team is dancing to the beat of the season (and city) with an impressive suspended installation of festive scenes representing classic holiday songs built inside oversized ornaments. Those looking to partake in the sweetness can sponsor an ornament to have their name added to the display. All proceeds will benefit Dell Children’s Medical Center.

“The Deck” Pop-Up Lounge

For an aerial view of the festivities, sugarplum sippers can step into the Hotel’s holiday pop-up lounge, “The Deck” located on the outdoor balcony of the Hotel Bar, Live Oak. Open daily from 1:00 pm to 12:00 midnight, the lounge will feature a lavish specialty menu of martinis, oysters, and more. Guests can truly “deck the halls” in this festive space adorned with winter-chic designs and cozy furnishings, while overlooking the Austin winter landscape. Seating is first come, first served and open to the public.

Holiday A-Tea-X in Live Oak

The famous afternoon tea service, A-Tea-X, will return November 20, 2023, with a festive flair. Available in the Hotel’s stylish bar daily from 1:00 to 3:00 pm, this ornamented offering includes flavoured hot teas, tea-inspired cocktails, and an impressive display of holiday treats. Reservations can be made with a minimum of 24-hours advanced notice via the Hotel’s OpenTable page.

Winter Spa Treatments

For those looking to experience the ultimate in winter skincare rejuvenation and relaxation, The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Austin will offer three signature treatments throughout the season. Treatments include a Peppermint Bliss Cocoon Wrap, Cosmic Winter Revival Ritual facial, and Snowflake Serenity Massage.

For more information on Ice Rodeo and winter happenings at Four Seasons Hotel Austin, visit the Four Seasons Hotel Austin Website.